word of mouth
/wɜːrd əv maʊθ/
Meaning
This phrase refers to the passing of information, recommendations, or news from person to person through informal conversation. In business, it is a highly valued form of organic marketing where satisfied customers tell others about a product or service. It carries a strong connotation of trust and credibility.
Examples
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Most of our new clients come to us through word of mouth rather than paid advertising.
Most of our new clients come to us through word of mouth rather than paid advertising.
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The small bakery became famous purely by word of mouth in the local community.
The small bakery became famous purely by word of mouth in the local community.
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We need to focus on customer service because positive word of mouth is our best marketing tool.
We need to focus on customer service because positive word of mouth is our best marketing tool.
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The app went viral overnight, largely driven by word of mouth on social media.
The app went viral overnight, largely driven by word of mouth on social media.
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They don't spend any money on billboards; they rely entirely on word of mouth.
They don't spend any money on billboards; they rely entirely on word of mouth.
Common Mistakes
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✗ We got many customers by words of mouth.
✓ We got many customers by word of mouth.
The expression is always singular: 'word of mouth', not 'words of mouth'.
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✗ The restaurant is famous because of mouth-to-mouth recommendation.
✓ The restaurant is famous because of word-of-mouth recommendations.
'Mouth-to-mouth' refers to medical resuscitation (CPR). Use 'word of mouth' or 'word-of-mouth' (as a compound adjective) for recommendations.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Our consulting firm doesn't advertise; we rely completely on ___.
💡 People telling other people about our services.
Show answer
word of mouth
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The movie wasn't expected to do well, but strong ___ turned it into a box office hit.
💡 Informal recommendations from viewers.
Show answer
word of mouth